The Winter Wonderland of Budapest

The Hungarian capital is vibrant and beautiful throughout the whole year; however, it definitely has a unique charm in the winter, especially during the festive season. The streets are dressed in glistening lights at this time of year and the alluring scent of roasted chestnuts, cinnamon-flavoured chimney cakes and mulled wine fills the air, as Budapest locals head outdoors to discover the many wonderful fairs, cultural events, the hot thermal waters of the historic baths and other exciting attractions their city offers.

Memories of the Belle Epoque: Hungarian Operetta

Part of the cultural heritage of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, the international genre of operetta received an unmistakable twist in Hungary and has become a real hungaricum. This light opera was incredibly popular in the Belle Epoque and the following decades, but spectacular performances can still be enjoyed nowadays.

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Hungarians are not only ambitious on the field. Among their many Olympic medals, World Championship titles and records, they also have been proving their abilities in a broad range of recent sporting events.

No matter where in the world the word ‘Tokaji' is mentioned, there is an immediate sparkle in the eyes of wine connoisseurs. And it is not without a reason. Louis XV of France referred to it as ‘Vinum Regum, Rex Vinorum' (Wine of Kings, King of Wines).

Gastro Adventures

Among the many charming cities surrounding the Hungarian capital, it is no question that Szentendre, Visegrád and Esztergom are the most famous, and visited by Hungarian and international tourists. There are more and more visitors who adjust their itinerary and programs to the culinary delights of a region.

Dobos cake, Rigó Jancsi, Esterházy cake… just some of the sweet classics of Hungarian cuisine and compulsory elements of a visit to any of the Hungarian confectioneries. From a romantic love story to 19th century innovation, they all have a story, and are much more than food: they are telling stories and are a piece of history themselves.

Head Chef Tiago Sabarigo claims to demand strict discipline in the kitchen, but he also works 14-16 hours per day himself. However, when one enters the restaurant, does not see tired faces or gets dishes produced on a conveyor belt. "The secret is inspiration" – says the chef smiling.

In a nutshell

Wine was introduced to Hungary by the Romans, and the country was known for its excellent wines until the devastation of World War II and the Communist era. Recently Hungarian wines have had a renaissance and garnering prizes in international competitions.

Budapest is a city of full of surprises and wonder, with its lively centre, pretty parks, majestic river, tall church spires and lavish spas. One of the most exciting cities in the world, Budapest is full of secrets to uncover, hidden spots to explore and old favourites to revisit. This is the city where being bored is not an option.

Budapest has a well-developed public transportation system, with a network of a great number of routes of trams, buses, trolleys, undergrounds and sub-urban railway lines. Maps, schedule, and other important info here.